Zagreb, Croatia | The “Stopover Zagreb”, a Special Program Designed for Passengers Transferring Through the Country’s Capital Launched

The Zagreb Tourist Board in cooperation with Croatia Airlines and the travel agency Obzor putovanja has launched the “Stopover Zagreb”, a special program designed for passengers transferring through the country's capital.

 The goal of this initiative is to encourage travellers to stay in Zagreb for 24 to 48 hours and experience the city through its cultural attractions, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, discovering a more than attractive centre located along the Sava River, at the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain, boasting a stunning 18th and 19th century Austro - Hungarian architecture, a captivating medieval Upper town, a beautiful Cathedral, the bustling Dolac Market, several relevant museums, extensive green parks and much more.

The "Stopover Zagreb" is a program that consists in a special package that typically includes 4 - or 5 - star accommodation with breakfast, city tax, and a Zagreb Card provides benefits like free public transport and discounts on museums, attractions, and restaurants, allowing visitors to easily experience the city’s history, culture, food and shopping.

This unique package makes Croatia’s capital and largest centre an easily and attractive choice even for those spending only a short time in the city between flights offering the opportunity to explore Gornji Grad, the historical Upper Town, ride the funicular and see the St. Mark Church with its distinctive tiled roof, walking along Tkallčieva Street, known for its cafes and restaurants, strolling through the iconic Jelačić Square, enjoying shopping on Ilica Street, or visiting Dolac Market, well known for its vibrant atmosphere and showcasing a multitude of local products and many other options.

Following the model of major global air hubs “Stopover Zagreb” is an invitation for transit passengers to turn their layover into a short getaway and at the same time the the project strengthens Zagreb’s position, an European capital boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage, as a year - round city break destination and enhances its visibility across the region and globally.

Within the same partnership, the Discover Zagreb programme has also been introduced, offering domestic and international travellers, a very attractive package that includes return flights from several cities and accommodation in high – class hotels with a guided city tour.

Together, the two programs bring the capital of Croatia even closer to travellers and encourage to experience it, even between two flights.

Information about the available packages can be found on https://obzorputovanja.hr/ and https://www.infozagreb./hr.

Link 
https://avioradar.net/en/the-stopover-zagreb-program-launched/

Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic | Officially Inaugurated 11 Newly Reconstructed Streets in the Historic Ciudad Colonial

Tourism Minister of the Dominican Republic David Collado, officially inaugurated 11 newly reconstructed streets in the historic Ciudad Colonial, Santo Domingo’ s Colonial zone, the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, known for its well - preserved architecture, including the Ozama Fortress, historic landmarks like the Alcázar de Colón, the Cathedral de Santa María la Menor, the first street in the New World, Calle Las Damas, with a stunning grid - like of cobblestone streets in an area designated UNESCO World Heritage Site combining historical sites and museums with a vibrant atmosphere, and highlighted by fine restaurants and captivating shops.  

This development in the capital of the Caribbean country marked a significant infrastructure investment exceeding 103 million Dominican pesos, interventions that are expected to have a direct and substantial impact on the local economy and the daily lives of residents in the area. 

The reconstruction and conditioning work, which includes sidewalks, curbs, and roadways are being executed by the Ministry of Tourism’s Executive Committee for Tourism Zone Infrastructure (Ceiztur).

This initiative is part of a broader project targeting the comprehensive renovation of 17 streets within the Colonial Zone, an emblematic area containing important historical sites such as the Puerta del Conde, the Cathedral de Santa María la Menor, and Fortaleza Ozama, and adjacent neighborhoods, specifically San Lázaro and San Miguel.

The scope of the work delivered across the 11 streets includes 2.536 linear metres of new road repaving and asphalt, along with the reconstruction of 4.087 linear metres of concrete and tiled sidewalks and an equal length of curbs.

The comprehensive intervention also encompasses the upgrading of storm drainage systems, the installation of new vertical and horizontal signage, and the construction of universal access ramps. The overall project aims for a total of 5.200 linear metres of roadway repair across all 17 target streets part of this major project.

The list of streets delivered includes major throughfares such as : Isabel La Católica (Section Vicente Celestino Suarte – Juan Parra Alba), Arzobispo Meriño (Section Mella – Restauración) , Duarte (Section Mella – Juan Isidro Pérez, Juan Isidro Pérez and Calle 19 de Marzo, among others, significantly improving access and aesthetics within this iconic and vital heritage area.

The Minister of Tourism stated that these efforts are part of a concerted push to ensure the Colonial Zone continues to keep its splendour and guarantee the largest number of visits from nationals and international tourists, emphasizing that extending the interventions to the surrounding sectors is central to the government’s vision of promoting inclusive and sustainable tourism.

The Minister added tha the delivery of these streets today represents another step forward in  a joint effort to ensure that the Ciudad Colonial remains as one of the top attractions for domestic and international tourists affirming that all street closure in the Colonial Zone related to the ongoing work would be resolved by December 2025.

Finally the head of tourism of the Caribberan country highlighted that 8% of all tourists visiting the country are bewitched by this zone, an iconic symbol of Santo Domingo and of the Dominican Republic.

Link 
https://dominicantoday.com/dr/tourism/2025/11/02/tourism-ministry-delivers-11-reconstructed-streets-in-santo-domingos-colonial-zone/

Bordeaux, France | EXP’ HÔTEL - International Trade Fair for the Hotel, Hospitality and Gastronomy Industry - From 23rd to 25th November 2025

Bordeaux, bustling port city on the Garonne River in the Gironde Department in southwestern France, known for its exceptional wine heritage, elegant architecture and vibrant cultural scene, famous for its UNESCO - listed Old Town, renowned vineyards and innovative art spaces, blending history and modern flair in one unforgettable destination will host from 23rd to 25th November 2025  EXP’ HÔTEL, a prestigious international trade fair for the hotel, hospitality and gastronomy industry. 

This relevant event takes places every two years at the impressive Parc des Expositions and is organized by  BEAM Bordeaux Events and More, an organizer headquartered in Bordeaux  known for its expertise in hosting large events. 

What’s special about this location is that Bordeaux, being one of the culinary capitals of France and a world - famous wine region, has a close connection to hospitality and gastronomy, making the fair particularly relevant to the city.   

This professional event for the hotel, hospitality, restaurant, food and beverage sectors is a relevant  trade show with exhibitors come from all sectors of the hospitality industry, from food producers to providers of hotel technologies. 

Several companies will showcase numerous products and services related to hotellerie, bakery, beverages, presentation, cutlery, and catering equipment and the event will be highlighted by a notable presence of culinary expertise, including 140 - Michelin starred chefs. 

Regarding the visitors, the fair attracts decision - makers of hotels, cafes, and restaurant from all over France and beyond looking for inspirations and to discover the latest trends in the industry and establish business contacts.

The main themes of EXP’ HÔTEL  encompass everything related to gastronomy and the hotel industry : from baked goods, beverages, dishes and cutlery to catering supplies and services.

There are five specific areas that visitors can explore : 

•    Food and Cooking. 
•    Kitchen Equipment. 
•    Food and Beverages. 
•    Decoration and Design.
•    Services and Technologies.
       
A special highlight of the fair is the various competitions where experienced professionals, emerging talents, and apprentices can seek new challenges and showcase their skills. 12 competitions, including new ones like the Young Talents Encounter and the Golden Flower Award will highlight the event.

In conclusion, EXP’ HÔTEL celebrates the excellence of the gastronomy and hospitality sectors with an exceptional programme elevating itself as as a unique platform for professionals, who can enjoy a top event and experiencing the beauty and hospitality of Bordeaux.

Links
https://www.exphotel.fr/
https://www.tradefairdates.com/EXP-Hotel-M13476/Bordeaux.html

Singh Enterprises | Acquired Soho Hotel and the Adjacent Former St. Alban’s Liberal Catholic Church, Expanding its Holdings in Brisbane, Australia

Singh Enterprises, an investment group headquartered on the Gold Coast has acquired the Soho Brisbane Hotel and the adjacent former St. Alban’s Liberal Catholic Church, expanding its holdings in Brisbane, the capital and largest city of the state of Queensland and the third most populous centre in Australia, located on Brisbane River, famous for its riverside lifestyle, outdoor activities and cultural attractions, a major hub for sports and serving as a gateway to renowned destinations such as the Gold Coast and North Stradbroke Island.

 CBRE Hotels, a specialized advisory group within CBRE providing brokerage, valuation, consulting, research and capital markets services to companies in the hotel sector based in Atlanta, U.S. managed the transaction through an off - market Expression of Interest campaign. 

The acquisitions align with Singh Enterprises’ strategy to strengthen its footprints in Brisbane’sd city-  fringe accommodation and redevelopment market.

The Soho Brisbane Hotel and the former church are located at 333 and 351 Wickham Terrace respectively, an acquisition that adds to the company’s existing property at 345 Wickham Terrace, previously known as the Pacific Hotel and rebranded as Mercure Spring Hill in Brisbane’s Spring Hill, an area features a mix of historic and modern architecture,  abundant green spaces like Roma Street Parkland, a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, and a strong connection to education and healthcare.

The area is known for its heritage - listed buildings, including the Spring Hill Baths, while also having  modern aparttments, trendy eateries, and nearby educational institutions like Brisbane Grammar School. Its location provides convenient access to the CBD, Fortitude Valley, and major transport routes.

The transactions create a contiguous landholding of 4.150 square metres, spanning three sites opposite Roma Street Parklands having a mixed - use zoning, with a permissible building height of 20 stories, subject to planning approvals.

The Soho Brisbane Hotel situated on an 867 - square metre site features 52 rooms, a restaurant, a two - bedroom manager’s residence, and parking facilities, offering a blend of  immediate income and long - term potential, providing significant redevelopment upside. 

The former St Alban’s Liberal Catholic Church directly adjoins the Mercure Hotel Brisbane occupying a 384 - square metre site across three lots offering 180 square metres of gross floor area over two levels and is zoned for mixed - use, allowing for future development into office, residential, retail, or tourist accommodation.

The investment in these properties reflects Singh Enterprises’ confidence in the area’s growth potential driven by its proximity to major transport links, hospitals, and upcoming infrastructure projects like the Cross River Rail and Roma Street precints, acquisitions that offer flexibility for future mixed -  use redevelopment while leveraging existing high - performing assets.

Link 
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138730.html

IHG Hotels & Resorts | Officially Opened a New Garner Hotel in Kyoto, Japan

IHG Hotels & Resorts, British multinational hospitality company based in Windsor, Berkshire, England, UK, has officially opened a new Garner hotel in Kyoto, a charming city located on the island of Honshu, famous for its several classical Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, many of them designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which embody its rich history as Japan’s Imperial capital for over a thousand year. 

The city is also known for its opulent palaces, wooden houses, its traditional geisha culture, textile arts, beautiful zen gardens and its refined Kaiseki cuisine.  

The Garner Hotel Kyoto Shiho Karasuma underwent extensive renovation before its launch and is conveniently located at 438 Shunzeicho, Shimogyo Ward within walking distance of Gojo Station and Shijo Station, a 15 - minute walk of Nishiki Market and Kawaramachi Street, offering easy access to Kyoto Imperial Palace and Gion in the heart of Kyoto’s Shijo Karasuma district, a major hub where modern commerce and traditional intersect featuring large department stores like Daimaru and Takashimaya, offering s wide variety of shopping and dining, and a very vibrant atmosphere.

This lively Kyoto’s area is highlighted by the bustling Teramachi Shopping Street, a covered arcade with diverse shops, the Museum of Kyoto, and Bukkōji Temple, easily accessible via public transportation. 

The property features 103 guestrooms, among them 95 single rooms, designed for solo travellers, that emphasize quality sleep and practical amenities. Guests have access to the 24/7 Garner Shop, which provides snacks, drinks, and everyday essentials. Complimentary tea and coffee are available in the lobby along with a welcome drink. 

The Garner Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma is now part of Garner a performing brand of IHG Hotels & Resorts, which now includes four locations in Japan, with three existing in Osaka.

Garner Hotels are an affordable, midscale brand focused on guest - centric features like convenient locations, a flexible design with character, offering complimentary hot breakfast, and comfortable beds with free Wi-Fi, and pet – friendly options.

Launched in 2023, the Garner brand has expanded rapidly with over 70 hotels open globally and an additional 80 in development. The brand plans to continue its expansion in Asia entering into the Thai market by the end of the year.  

Link 
https://www.ihg.com/garner-hotels/hotels/gb/en/kyoto/ukysk/hoteldetail
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138788.html

Marriott International | Unveiled the Future Full Opening of The Lake Como EDITION Hotel in Cadenabbia, Italy

Marriott International, American multinational hospitality company based in Bethesda, Maryland unveiled the future opening of The Lake Como EDITION hotel that will open its doors in Cadenabbia, a small centre part of the comune of Griante, located between the communities of Menaggio and Tremezzo on the west shore of Lake Como in the region Lombardy in northern Italy, a laid - village set around a sheltered bay on the Lario that embodies the essence of Italian charm and natural  beauty.

The property began a preview phase in September and October, with a full opening planned for March 2026.

The future hotel opening is a collaboration between EDITION,  brand owned by Marriott International,, Omnam Investment Group, a pioneering global real estate with an incisive vision to source and develop distinctive real estate icons headquartered in London, England, UK and Bain Capital, LP, an American private investment firm based in Boston, Massachussets.

The new property accessible via a private dock is located at Via Regina, 41, hosted in a renovated hotel structure originally built in 1830 features 148 comfortable eooms, including 25 suites and two penthouses.

The hotel offers a range of dining options, led by Chef Mauro Colagreco, featuring a signature restaurant and several bars. The dining venues offer views of Lake Como and specialize in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Amenities at The Lake Como EDITION include a flooting pool on the lake, providing additional leisure options for guests, a wellness spa, the Longevity SPA, which offers a range of treatments and wellness experiences, and guests can utilize the the Lake Como ferry service for transportation to other towns on the lake.

The property entered in the EDITON brand, characterized by a blend of luxury and lifestyle, a strong focus and sophisticated design and unique, localized experiences tailored to each destination. 

Key features of EDITION are personalized service, distinct public spaces, high - end dining and bars, and a combination of modern, edgy aesthetics with local elements. The brand aim to create immersive “special” and unique hotels that go beyond traditional luxury to feel more intimate and authentic.

The hotel opening is part of a larger development strategy by EDITION to expand its presence in key global locations. This opening adds to the brand’s portfolio, which includes hotels in cities such as London, New York, and Tokyo.

Links 
https://www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/mille-the-lake-como-edition/overview/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article138856.html

Ethiopia | Reaffirming its Commitment to Protect Biodiversity, Enhance Nature - Based Tourism and Safeguard Cultural Heritage

Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting biodiversity, enhancing nature - based tourism, safeguarding its cultural heritage and supporting resilient livelihoods, initiatives announced by State Minister Sileshi Girma, who opened the 25^th Global Wildlife Program Conference which took place in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa on 3^rd November 2025, an event planned with the aim to share knowledge, build partnerships and showcase best practice to scale impact across member projects.

The Minister highlighted the efforts support ecological sustainability with the goals of National Green Legacy, a central component, focusing on reforestation and land restoration to conserve biodiversity and support tourism strategies and inclusive development.

Linked to this topic Ethiopia is making strategic investments in infrastructure and nature - based tourism to drive conservation and community benefits.

The Ethiopian Wildlife Authority highlighted the country’s ecological range, from highlands above 4.000 metres to lowlands 150 metres below sea level and ongoing work to align protected - area management with Green Legacy goals and expanding nature - based tourism.

The African country is also actively working to safeguard its cultural heritage, rich and ancient, with notable aspects including historical sites like the rock - hewn churches of Lalibela, the ruins of Aksum, diverse ethnic groups with many languages, many of the world’s oldest archaeological findings, and its significant number of UNESCO World heritage sites, among them the Lower Omo Valley and Harar Jugol.

As a member of the 38 - country GWP network, Ethiopia cited milestones including the full operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a massive hydroelectric structure developed on the Blue Nile River and riverside and corridor developments as part of efforts to strengthen the visitor economy while conserving natural assets.

Link

https://atta.travel/resource/ethiopia-reaffirms-commitment-to-biodiversity-and-nature-based-tourism.html